with Steven Harper and Layla Smith Bockhorst Beginning in the zendo at Green Gulch Farm

Saturday, September 27, 2014

9:30 am - 5:30 pm

Most of the world's spiritual traditions include some form of pilgrimage. Although not often taught in the West, Buddhism also includes such a practice. This retreat will be a contemporary pilgrimage, exploring the ancient art of walking. While pilgrimage is often from one place to another, we will end at the very place we begin, celebrating the sacred aspect of the journey itself. We will begin at Green Gulch with an introduction to the basic principles of sitting meditation (zazen) and walking practice (kinhin). Much of the day will be spent mindfully hiking trails in the wilds of Marin (3-6 miles in length), moving between silence, instruction, and informal discussion. This is a contemplative journey where each step is the goal.

Please bring a bag lunch. Further information will be sent upon registration.

Steven HarperSteven Harper is a wilderness guide, author, and consultant. He has taught at Esalen Institute for over 25 years. A student of Buddhism since 1972, Steven has an M.A. in psychology. His work focuses on wild nature as a vehicle for awakening.

Layla Smith BockhorstLayla Smith Bockhorst (Gyokujun Teishin, “Pure Forge, Pervading Heart”) began practicing Zen in 1969 at San Francisco Zen Center with Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and spent a total of 18 years in residence at Zen Center’s three practice places. She held many different positions during this time. Most recently she completed the Winter 2014 Practice Period at Tassajara. She was ordained by Richard Baker and received dharma transmission from Norman Fischer. She leads the Mountain Root Sangha in Larkspur, CA, and regularly goes to Montana (where she was born and raised) to teach.